On Sunday afternoon, Kings center Spencer Hawes brightened the Holiday season for 25 military families at Best Buy in Natomas.

“It feels good to be in a position to give back,” Hawes said genuinely. “Especially this year, when so many people have gone through so much. It makes (the season) a little more special.”

The Kings big man greeted servicemen and women, along with their families, at the electronic superstore. Given $200, they shopped for gifts courtesy of Hawes and Maloof Sports & Entertainment.

“This is a definite blessing,” Air Force Senior Airman Tom Dixon said while waiting to take a picture with the Kings center. “We weren’t going to be able to buy some gifts for a lot of our family members until this became available.”

After presents were purchased, Hawes posed for pictures with all of the military personnel and their families. The second-year center also autographed mini-balls and signed calendars for kids.

“I remember doing the same thing as a kid,” Hawes said with a smile. “When the Sonics had an event, I would try to go. I feel for them because it wasn’t too long ago that it was the other way around.”

From the Air Force to the Army, all branches of the Armed Forces were represented. And all involved were thankful for the overwhelming support they’ve received while serving the country.

“It’s a humbling experience to me because I’m not used to this,” Army Staff Sergeant Shaun Fleig said. “I’ve been in the Army for 15 years and there was a time when it wasn’t cool. Now, people thank me all the time.”

The giving didn’t end at the conclusion of the shopping spree. In a surprising and thoughtful gesture, Wells Fargo presented the 25 military families an additional $100 each.

“We’ve been blessed with the gifts that we’ve received today because of some hardships we have been going through,” Fleig’s wife, Jessica said. “These extra gifts are going to make our Christmas really special.”

The Holiday spirit doesn’t end here. Hawes' shopping spree is one of several events the Kings have in store during Maloof Sports & Entertainment's Season of Giving.

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